Commencement 2020

Sunday, November 15 | 2:30 p.m.

Anthony Lazslo, D.D.S. '20 gives virtual commencement speech.

In December 2019, the School of Dentistry commencement planning began as usual, with students selecting loved ones and mentors to hood or pin them on stage and faculty to serve as their class marshals. Planning came to a sudden halt in March at the onset of the pandemic. As time went on, it was apparent that gathering in person to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2020 would not be possible.

On Nov. 15, the Class of 2020 was recognized and celebrated with a virtual commencement ceremony for the first time in School of Dentistry history. Graduates of the Dental Class of 2020 and their loved ones were able to reflect on recent history with a special video designed by their peer, Anthony Laszlo D.D.S. Vice president of the Dental Class of 2020, Laszlo used his photography and videography talents to capture his class' experience from beginning to end. Not only did Laszlo create a montage of memories that will last a lifetime, he delivered a speech reminding his class of their accomplishments together over the past four years and their bond that will last a lifetime.

To watch the full virtual commencement of the class of 2020, please see https://bit.ly/2KRreun

President Antoine M. Garibaldi congratulates the Class of 2020 during the president's message.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Pamela Zarkowski gives the welcoming address to all virtual commencement attendees.

Dean Mert N. Aksu gives remarks and presents the Class of 2020 with certificates and degrees.

Assistant Dean Juliette Daniels offers an additional welcome as a School of Dentistry representative.

Class of 2020 Awards

Each year, graduating students are honored with a variety of awards based on a demonstration of excellence in different aspects of dentistry and dental education. Recipients are selected by deans, directors, and chiefs of service in the areas of Academic Administration, Clinical Dentistry, Dental Hygiene, Leadership & Service, Pediatric Dentistry and Research & Biomedical Sciences.

The Class of 2020 had 38 students presented with 43 Division Awards and the following Dean's Achievement Awards:

Clara Poparad-Stezar, D.D.S. Hala Ibrahim, R.D.H. Ragda Hindi, D.D.S.

Amandeep Kaur Pentlia, D.D.S. Robert McDonald, D.D.S.

Clara Poparad-Stezar, D.D.S. Dental – Outstanding Academic Achievement Award: The graduate who has attained the highest scholastic standing in the dental class.

Hala Ibrahim, R.D.H. Dental Hygiene – Outstanding Academic Achievement Award: The graduate who has attained the highest scholastic standing in the dental hygiene class.

Ragda Hindi, D.D.S. International College of Dentists Student Leadership Award: The dental graduate who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and great potential for continued future leadership. The award includes $500.

Amandeep Kaur Pentlia, D.D.S. Delta Dental Foundation Student Leadership Award: The dental graduate who has demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to public service and outstanding service in dentistry. The award includes $2,500.

OKU Inductees

(left to right, front row first): Hussein Yassine, Lena Akkad, Marian Ibrahim, Devonn Israil, Amanda Croskey, Alexander Chevalier, honorary member Carolynn Zeitz, Taryn Gladwish, Clara Poparad-Stezar, Nikolina Milidrag, Omar Abdelrahman, Timothy Schafer. Not in photo Elizabeth Macchione, and Anela Avdic

Kristen Bailey, R.D.H and Justin Schoenfeldt, R.D.H

Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) is the national dental honor society. The organization was founded in 1914 and the Greek letters Omicron Kappa Upsilon translate as “Teeth and Health.” Graduates with high scholarship are first considered, in addition to other factors including character, potential for leadership, professionalism, and ethics.

Sigma Phi Alpha (SPA) is the national honor society of the dental hygiene profession. Membership in SPA is comprised of elected dental hygiene educators and of graduates from accredited dental hygiene programs with high scholastic achievement.

Sigma Phi Alpha Inductees

Robert McDonald, D.D.S. Delta Dental Foundation Community Commitment Award: The dental graduate who has demonstrated commitment to community service and underserved populations. The award includes $25,000.